The proposed bill would introduce several new requirements regarding the auditing of funds allocated for homelessness programs in Arizona. Specifically, it mandates the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) to conduct a special audit by December 31, 2026, focusing on the total expenditures related to homelessness, including state, municipal, and federal funds, as well as costs incurred by law enforcement agencies. The bill also requires all state and local government entities to cooperate with the audit by providing access to necessary financial records at no cost.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the special audit must evaluate the awarding of contracts and grants for homeless services, the metrics used to assess the effectiveness of expenditures, the efficiency of data management systems, and the costs associated with services provided to individuals experiencing homelessness. The bill appropriates $1,250,000 from the Housing Trust Fund for the audit and exempts this appropriation from lapsing. It also includes a provision for the repeal of the legislation after June 30, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-2405